Work-life balance struggles due to high childcare costs, childcare/work hours mismatch, care for multiple children & those with special needs and long waits for public programs

Lack of transportation

These mothers shared similarities in economic coping strategies, with eligible women using WIC, SNAP and Medicaid, working “side jobs” to earn extra money, doubling-up and living in subsidized housing, and receiving financial and other support from male partners, family and friends. Despite this assistance, experiences of material hardship were quite common.

This study lays the foundation for further inquiry, to increase understanding of the dynamics, characteristics and circumstances of the disconnected, representing an investment in the next stage of research.